BETTER THAN A GOOD REPORT CARD
With the school year getting into full swing, many students of all ages are taking strides toward their futures. While good grades and standardized test scores are essential for college placement and career opportunities, it’s also essential to maintain a clean criminal record. Even with a perfect GPA, something as simple as a shoplifting charge can create a permanent stain on a student’s opportunities. Unfortunately, growing up involves making mistakes, and sometimes these mistakes land you on the wrong side of the law. According to the National Institute of Justice, the prevalence of committing a crime is highest among people ages 15–19. If you are a parent or guardian of a student who is charged with a crime, it’s important to know they have options. Fight the Charge As with any criminal matter, your student has the legal right to challenge the charges against them. Because of the serious nature of the case, it would be wise to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to understand how likely a dismissal is, weighed against the likelihood of negotiating a fair deal with the prosecution. Seek Pretrial Diversion The pretrial diversion program here in Texas offers a great avenue for students who want to make up for their mistakes without incurring a criminal record. As an alternative to
prosecution, this voluntary program focuses on rehabilitating the accused rather than punishing them. To qualify, a student must have little to no criminal history, be facing nonviolent charges, and be willing to meet all the requirements of an agreed-upon probationary period. Depending on the crime, this probation may include drug rehabilitation, community service, or specific acts of restitution to the accusers. In signing up for pretrial diversion, the student signs a provisional statement of guilt, essentially admitting they committed the crime. However, so long as theymaintain a clean record and meet all the requirements of probation, the charges will be dismissed at the end of the program. The student will be allowed to return to normal life as if the charges had never been brought. The field of criminal law is as wide as it is complex. Having an expert team on the side of your student can help you chart the best possible route for their future. Everyone makes mistakes when they’re young. A misdemeanor shouldn’t stand between your student and their future.
Inside-Out Grilled HAM & CHEESE
Brain Buster
Ingredients
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8 slices of bread (Pullman works best) 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
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1/2 pound Swiss cheese, sliced
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2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
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8 ounces ham, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup apricot preserves
Directions
1. Butter each slice of bread on the outsides and sprinkle with Parmesan. 2. Layer ham and cheese evenly on top of 4 slices of bread. 3. Spread apricot preserves and mustard across the other 4 slices. Press sandwiches together. 4. In a cast iron skillet or large sauté pan over medium heat, grill sandwiches until golden, about 3 minutes per side. 5. Cut in half and serve.
Inspired by Food & Wine magazine
www.medlinfirm.com | Pg. 3
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